I could speak in tongues of men and angels,
But if I have not love,
Then my voice is a clash of brass and clanging bells,
Just tongue-tied stammering.
I could predict the future, all truth possess,
But if I have not love,
Then my knowledge means little, my words mean less,
And my truth means not a thing.
I could give all I have to others.
I could give my body to be burned.
Without love all my sacrifice means nothing,
My gift is spurned.
Love is patient, and love is kind.
Love does not waver and it doesn't stray.
Love's not proud, love does not insist
On having it's own way.
Love is strong, it protects and it defends.
It turns from wrong, and rejoices in the right.
Love endures all things, love forgives all things.
Love is hope, and love is light.
Love never fails.
As for prophecies, they will all pass away.
Tongues will cease. And all knowledge will fade.
My worldly sight is dim.
True vision comes from Him.
When perfection comes to reign
All that's imperfect disappears.
But three things forever will remain:
Faith, hope, and love.
And the greatest of these is love.
God's greatest gift is love.
>Lyrics to If I Have Not Love
by Jo Davidsmeyer
adapted from Paul's first letter to the Corinthians,
chapter 13: |
